Their beloved art teacher died. To deal with this grief the school had posted on their billboard, "Thanks Mrs. Rydberg for helping us love art." My grand-daughters attend this school and I often play the part of escorting them home at the end of their day.

Last Thursday at the end of the day the school had planned a balloon launch to honor Mrs. Rydberg. It was very cold, crisp wintery afternoon and the wind caused your eyes to water camouflaging the already sadness of tears as teachers and students filed out of the building surrounding the flag pole to releast their balloons.

A gust of wind blew and most of the balloons lodged in a large tree in the front of the school and the children became a squeal of delight as the balloons decorated their tree. It became a true celebration of her life, even two little boys ran to hug the tree.

Just like Mrs. Rydberg everyone thought. It was a beautiful tribute and a privilege to witness.